The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021 Edition

STEMPOSIUMThe 2021 Issue

MAGAZINE @LawsonStateCC

Next-Gen STEM

Highlighting programs
that increase interest in STEM

from middle school
to college
p.16

STEM + Art

What a fascinating
combination! p.14

1

Now more than ever, there is a need to establish Pi-STEM E3 Leadership Team
programs to better position the current and next- Dr. Bruce Crawford
generation STEM workforce. The STEM Program Principal Investigator, NSF Pi-STEM E3 grant
at Lawson State Community College provides Vice President for Instructional Services
several programs designed to increase participants’ Lawson State Community College
awareness of STEM fields and/or increase interested Dr. Shawanda Thomas
students’ motivation to persist in the STEM fields. STEM Director | Mathematics Instructor
Lawson State is known for hosting on-campus [email protected]
STEM activities for middle school, high school, and (205)929-3443
college students, including the: Mrs. Jean Whitlow
STEM Assistant
STEM Scholars Program [email protected]
(for college students) (205)929-3533

STEM Enrichment Institute Special Acknowledgments
(middle/high school) We would like to acknowledge Lawson State
STEM Bridge Program Community College President, Dr. Cynthia Anthony,
(high school graduates) for being a long-time advocate for student success and
supporting programs and campus-wide initiatives
Girls IMPACT Summer Program such as the STEM Program.
(middle/high school)
Disclaimer
The core values of the STEM program are References to any specific commercial product,
research, integrity, service, and excellence. STEM process, service by trade name, trademark,
undergraduates who are accepted into the STEM manufacturer, or other-wise, do not constitute or
program are known as STEM scholars. STEM imply endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by
scholars meet regularly throughout the year, network Lawson State Community College.
with STEM professionals, receive invaluable Non-Discrimination Policy
information to develop them academically and It is the policy of the Alabama Community College
socially as well as attend national conferences, System, its Board of Trustees, and Lawson State
present research, and receive awards. Community College, a postsecondary institution
The program is generously supported by the under its control, that no person shall, on the grounds
National Science Foundation, mainly through the of race, color, disability, sex, religion, creed, national
Pi-STEM E3 grant (Award # 1719329). origin, age or any other protected class as defined by
Federal and State Law, be excluded from participation
2 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021 in, be denied the benefit of, or be subjected to
discrimination under any program, activity, or
employment.

IN THIS ISSUE

About...........................2

Magazine Contributors.........3

ERN 2020 Conference...................................................................4

ABRCMS 2019 Conference ..............................6

American Heart Association HBCU Scholars Program............................8

White Coat Ceremony..............................................10

STEM Parnership...........................12

Alumni Highlights/Tribute to Dr. Charles Fowler.............13

STEM + Art..............14

Why I Should Apply? Internships and Why They Are Relevant....................................15

STEM Programs in the Summer Time............16

The Girls IMPACT Summer Program.........18

Highlights from the Aspiring STEM Professionals Program.........................26

The Lawson State Community College STEM Scholars Program...............30

The STEMposium Magazine Contributors

Content Creator/Designer Lead Editor: Lead Writer: Contributing Editor:
Dr. Shawanda Thomas Dr. Ann Swanberg
STEM Director English Instructor Dr. Shawanda Thomas Jean Whitlow
Lawson State CC Lawson State CC STEM Director STEM Assistant
Contributing Writers: Photo Credits: Lawson State CC Lawson State CC
Kera Dudley Frederick Brooks
Erin Howard Adrianne Brown Photo Credits continued: Photo Credits continued:
H. Brehonna Pineda Fawzy Bukari
LaRon Shackleford Cameron Church Dr. K. Renee Horton Brittany Rhodes
Rhythm Williams Kera Dudley Ankrehah Johnson LaRon Shackleford
Stacie Fairley Amina Kelly L’Tryce Slade
Domina Gardner I’yuana Morris Dr. Shawanda Thomas
Houston Griggs Adrienne Newton Joaniteka Whitlow-Nixon
Jimena Ortiz-Perez Rhythm Williams
H. Brehonna Pineda Dr. Tracey Wilson

3

ERN2020
Emerging Researchers National Conference in STEM
Lawson State Community College STEM Scholars fellowships, summer research opportunities,
were in attendance at the 2020 Emerging Researchers professional development activities, and employment
National (ERN) Conference in Science, Technology, opportunities.
Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) in Washington, STEM Scholars Frederick Brooks and Rhythm
D.C. from February 6-8, 2020. ERN is hosted by Williams both participated in the poster presentation
the American Association for the Advancement of competition. Frederick Brooks received a travel award
Science (AAAS), Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to attend the conference which covered his flight and
Programs, and the National Science Foundation (NSF) hotel expenses. His research was entitled, “Creating
Division of Human Resource Development (HRD) a Homogenization Mixing Device for Liquid Crystal
within the Directorate for Education and Human Solutions.” We are pleased to share that Rhythm
Resources (EHR). Williams placed 1st in the Biological Sciences category
The conference is aimed at college and university (sub-category: Genetics/Biomedical Engineering/
undergraduate and graduate students who participate Cancer) for her research entitled, “Function of
in programs funded by the NSF HRD Unit, including Protein Kinase CK2 in B-Cells in the Pathogenesis of
underrepresented minorities and persons with Autoimmune Disease.” This was quite a remarkable
disabilities. The objectives of the conference are to achievement since the majority of the conference
help undergraduate and graduate students to enhance presenters were students from four-year institutions,
their science communication skills and to better and there were fewer than 5 community colleges in
understand how to prepare for science careers in a attendance at the event.
global workforce. Towards this end, the general format The STEM Scholars also had a chance to enjoy the city a
for the 21/2 day conference includes student poster and little when visiting the local eateries, malls, the National
oral presentations, and other conference activities, Museum of African American History & Culture, and
including: workshops focused on strategies for the Washington Monument.
applying for and succeeding in graduate programs and The attendees at the ERN 2020 conference were:
finding funding for graduate school; career preparation Frederick Brooks, Cameron Church, Kera Dudley,
workshops focused on employment searches and Devonte’ Kirkland, H. Brehonna Pineda, G. Alaina
retention; and Smith, Rhythm Williams, Dr. Bruce Crawford(Vice
understanding STEM careers in a global context and President for Instructional Services), Dr. Shawanda
identifying international research and education Thomas(STEM Director), and Dr. Tracey Wilson(Chair,
opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students Department of Natural Sciences).
and faculty.
Exhibitors included representatives from academic,
government, business, and the non-profit sectors
with information about graduate school admissions,
4 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

Above: ERN 2020 Attendees (left to right): Dr Bruce Above: Rhythm Williams, Lawson State Animal
Crawford, Vice President for Instructional Services; Science major, wins 1st Place in the Biological
STEM Scholars - Devonte’ Kirkland, Frederick Brooks, G. Sciences category for her research poster
Alaina Shaw, Rhythm Williams, Kera Dudley, Cameron presentation at the ERN 2020 conference.
Church, H. Brehonna Pineda, and Dr. Shawanda Thomas,
STEM Director. Picture taken by Dr. Tracey Wilson, Chair,
Natural Sciences Department

Above: Lawson State and ERN 2020 attendees listen to renowned conference Above: Frederick Brooks waits
speakers while enjoying great meals throughout the conference. to answer the judges’ questions
about his research.

Above: Rhythm Williams poses Above: STEM Scholars enjoy the simulations Above: Exhibit at the National
with former NFL player and at the National Museum of African American Museum of African American
PhD candidate, John Urschel. History & Culture. Above: Rhythm Williams History & Culture
and Frederick Brooks participate in the
“stepping” simulation. 5

By LaRon Shackleford | STEM Scholar |Physics Major ABRCMS Achievements:
STEM Scholar, I’yuana Morris, was a Presentation
The Annual Biomedical Research Conference for Awardee at the 2019 ABRCMS conference. She
Minority Students (ABRCMS) is an opportunity received 1st place for her oral research presentation
that every STEM student should take advantage of entitled, “Characterization of an Ex Vivo Model of
and experience. ABRCMS is administered through Neuroendocrine Tumors,” within the Cell Biology
the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) and Developmental Biology and Genetics category.
and is one of our nation’s leading communities of
underrepresented minorities in Science, Technology, 2019 Lawson State ABRCMS Conference Attendees:
Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. Frederick Brooks, Cameron Church, Houston Griggs,
ABRCMS was founded by the American Society for Jeriah Henry, Myeshia Jenkins, Amina Kelly, I’yuana
Microbiology to encourage minority, first-generation, Morris, LaRon Shackleford, and Chaperones: Dr.
veteran, and disabled students to pursue higher Shawanda Thomas (STEM Director) and Dr. Bruce
STEM education. Today, ABRCMS is one of the Crawford (Vice President for Instructional Services).
largest professional conferences for underrepresented The virtual 2020 ABRCMS conference was held
students. November 9-13, 2020. The students who participated
ABRCMS 2019 was a fantastic experience that over in the 2020 virtual conference were the following:
2,700 students attended. Many of them presented Vincent Belfield, Kera Dudley, Chelse Duff, Zoe
their research to improve their professional Evans, Shardena Hollings-Ezell, Erin Howard, Kaitlyn
development skills, explored top-tier graduate Jenkins, Kristinal Johnson, H. Brehonna Pineda,
schools, and capitalized on numerous networking Rhythm Williams, and Norvie Womack.
opportunities. Not only do scholars have the option
to present research, they also get to engage with a
group of scientists as well as exercise their thoughts
as scientists. Undergraduates can also attend webinars
before the conference to understand how to form an
abstract, cultivate clear and organized posters, and
present logically and influentially.
While at ABRCMS, you should expect to work hard;
however, there are opportunities to have some fun.
During our trip, we went sightseeing, ate at excellent
restaurants, and went swimming. In conclusion,
whether you love traveling or you have never traveled,
ABRCMS will allow you to experience something
new.
6 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

Above: I’yuana Morris is taking it all in as Myeshia Above: Frederick Brooks prepares to present to the
Jenkins explains her research. judges and conference participants.

Above: Jeriah Henry Above: Lawson State participants attend the 2019 Above: LaRon Shackleford
presents to attendees. ABRCMS conference. presents to attendees.

Above: I’yuana Morris wins Above: Amina Kelly taking advantage of the Above: Participants enjoyed
first place for her oral research Career Fair at the conference. an outing at Roscoe’s
presentation. Chicken ‘n Waffles.
7

HBCU SCHOLARS PROGRAM

By STEM Scholars, Erin Howard |Biology Major & Rhythm Williams |Animal Science Major

The AHA HBCU Scholars Program is a program that of opportunities within the STEM field. I was able to
partners with several Historically Black Colleges or attend conferences that allowed me to see the very
Universities (HBCU) and their students across the few number of minorities represented in research,
southeastern states to raise awareness of cardiovascular which motivated me to continue my journey making
research. This program provides a foundation for a change in the world. I also had the opportunity to
minorities interested in or pursuing a degree in STEM- be a guest on an AHA panel discussion, learn how to
related fields. There are two colleges within the city of code using Python, serve in the community, and attend
Birmingham, Alabama partnering with this program: one of the largest conferences in the world hosted by
Lawson State Community College and Miles College. the American Heart Association. With research being
Each year, as funding and awareness increase, they my passion, this internship stressed the importance
are able to invite more HBCU’s and their students to of having all the tools and ‘equipment’ you need to be
join to improve the impact of research on heart disease successful with continuing your research career. ‘Have
and treatment. The AHA HBCU Scholars Program your elevator speech ready because you may never
encourages minorities to apply as all voices are needed know who is in front of you. It’s about who you know
in research, especially minorities, being the most and clearly stating who you are and what you need’ is a
impacted by these diseases. This program is designed statement I remember by Dr. Bhaby Banks.”
for entry-level and experienced researchers and Erin Howard, 2020-21 AHA HBCU Scholar, stated,
provides you with all the tools you need to be successful “The program is a great opportunity to network with
throughout the program. The bonuses provided many amazing people and learn about the inner
include activities such as attending conferences(travel), workings of the AHA. I hope to gain networking
hosting discussion panels, and of course, creating a experience, research advice, and a great place to start
very important and informative research project. If my journey of research experiences. The program has
you are interested in this program, please make sure been a great experience for me so far... from being
you’re always putting your best foot forward at your able to network with multiple people to completing
college as this program is by invitation only. research with a mentor that I have gotten to know over
Rhythm Williams, 2019-20 AHA HBCU Scholar, time. Being appointed a mentor is one of the exciting
stated, “This opportunity allowed me to grow in the area parts of the program. Along with working well with my
of research and allowed me to develop an interesting appointed mentor, I have met many students within
research project underneath the mentorship of Dr. the program from other HBCU’s. I am grateful to also
James Kirklin and his team of researchers, particularly be working with Dr. Kirklin at UAB Kirklin Clinic and
Dr. Ramaraju. I would most definitely encourage anyone many more during this project. This is my first ever
pursuing a degree in STEM to apply to this program research experience, and I am proud to say that it is
as they make each intern, from the time you begin with the American Heart Association HBCU scholars.”
meetings to the time you’re getting ready to present your To promote the advancement of African American
project, feel comfortable with not knowing everything scientists and medical professionals trained to
about research. This sense of comfort provides you a understand the impact of cardiovascular disease in
friendly, competitive space and opportunity to further their communities, the AHA launched the HBCU
your skills and ask questions to learn. This program Scholars Program (originally called the P.E.E.R.
also connected me with life-long mentors and an array
8 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

Diversity Program [Promoting the Engagement
and Exposure of students to scientific Research])
in 2015.

The AHA HBCU Scholars experience includes: Above: Lawson State and Miles College AHA HBCU Scholars all
•A full academic year of research experience did an excellent job presenting their research on Friday, January
that includes cardiovascular disease related 29, 2021 via Zoom.
research in most cases;
•Individual mentoring by volunteer researchers,
many of whom conduct cardiovascular disease
related research:
•Travel to an AHA international conference,
such as Scientific Sessions;
•Travel to an annual Research Symposium;
•Poster presentation of year-long research
project at the Symposium;
•Opportunities 3-5 times a year to participate in
virtual professional development workshops;
•Team building and leadership training to
promote peer bonding; and
•Engagement with local AHA offices to promote
outreach and engagement in their communities.

The American Heart Association HBCU
Scholars Program established a partnership
with Lawson State Community College in
2019 under the leadership of former Lawson
State President, Dr. Perry W. Ward. Since the
partnership began, the following students have
received the opportunity to participate:

2020-21 AHA Lawson State HBCU Scholars
2019-20 Erin Howard
Ashton Oliver
Ajah Gross
Rhythm Williams

Will you be the next AHA HBCU Scholar?

9

2020 STEM WHITE COAT CEREMONY

Date of Ceremony: Friday, May 1, 2020
Theme: Empowering STEM Leaders
Guest Speaker: Dr. Ruth Jones, Acting Deputy Director, NASA Michoud Assembly Facility
The STEM White Coat Ceremony was held virtually for the first time, but everything went according to plan.
STEM scholars were recognized for their participation in the STEM program at Lawson State Community
College. Family, friends, faculty, staff, and administrators of Lawson State attended the event to show their
support.

Below are the STEM scholars who were recognized for their active participation in the STEM program during
the ceremony.

NSF GA-AL LSAMP Scholars Major LSCC Graduation Date

Vincent Belfield Mechanical Engineering May 2020

Ryan Edwards Electrical Engineering

Amina Kelly Computer Science December 2020

David Nash Computer Science

LaRon Shackleford Physics

NSF S-STEM MAKERS Scholars Major LSCC Graduation Date
Frederick Brooks Mathematics May 2020
Cameron Church Biology/Pre-Medicine May 2020
Kera Dudley Electrical Engineering December 2020
Tayla Harrison Biology December 2020
Jeriah Henry Biology/Physical Therapy May 2020
Devonte’ Kirkland Electrical Engineering Transferred to Alabama A&M

NSF HBCU-UP Pi-STEM E3 Scholars Major LSCC Graduation Date
Jordan Barksdale Computer Engineering December 2020
Jalee Brown Biology
Erin Howard Biology December 2020
H. Brehonna Pineda Biology
Angelica Webb Chemical Engineering
Rhythm Williams Animal Science/Pre-Med

The following students were recognized for exemplary demonstration of the four core values of the STEM
Program and received special awards during the ceremony:

STEM RISE Award *Frederick Brooks
STEM Research Award *Rhythm Williams
STEM Integrity Award *Cameron Church
STEM Service Award *Kera Dudley
STEM Excellence Award *Angelica Webb 

10 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

Above: Highlights of the program were shared
with the audience.
Above: White Coat Ceremony Above: Dr. Ruth Jones,
Invitations Physicist, was the guest
speaker for the ceremony.
Purpose of White Coat Ceremony
The STEM White Coat Ceremony is an observance of the research efforts of students pursuing and engaging in
rigorous scientific research. The research is typically the result of intense literature reviews, lab experiments, and/
or data analysis via an established research methodology. To this end, all Lawson State Community College STEM
Scholars are expected to engage in research during their tenure at Lawson State.

Eligibility to receive a white coat requires:
1) participation in a creditable research experience
2) the dissemination of said research via conference presentations, publications, etc.
3) demonstration of ethical behavior and integrity in all academic pursuits

The following STEM scholars received white coats during the ceremony:

2020 White Coat Recipient Research Title

Frederick Brooks Creating a Homogenization Mixing Device for Liquid Crystal Solutions

Cameron Church GeneX Functions during Mammalian Cardiac Neural Crest Cell Development

Jeriah Henry Analytics of Textual Data Structures on Aquaglyceroporinn-7 in Energy Metabo-
lism

Amina Kelly Nanomechanical Properties of Graphene Nanoplatelets/Epoxy Nanocomposites

LaRon Shackleford Next Generation Space Habitat Systems

Rhythm Williams Function of Protein Kinase CK2 in B-Cells in the Pathogenesis of Autoimmune
Disease

Above: Amina Kelly Above: Cameron Church Above: Frederick Brooks Above: LaRon
Shackleford and Amin1a1
Kelly

STEM Service

In addition to assisting with STEM Above (standing): Above(left): STEM Scholar,
programs on campus for middle and STEM Scholar, Ryan Rhythm Williams tutors.
high school students, the Lawson
State STEM scholars served over Edwards tutors.
1,000 combined tutoring hours for
college students in the STEM subject
areas for the 2019-20 academic year.
Tutoring was held in the STEM
Tutoring and Research Lab located on
the Birmingham campus. Scholars
also use the lab to study and work
on basic research skills. Once classes
transitioned to remote learning in
2020, STEM participants tutored
each other virtually.

STEM Partnership

For Fall 2020, the UAB’s IRACDA-MERIT Program and Lawson State’s STEM Scholars
Program partnered to train continuing and new STEM Scholars on the research process
through an Intro to Scientific Research Workshop Series. Led by MERIT fellows, these
workshops were held every other week virtually via Lawson State’s Blackboard learning
management system. Lawson State STEM scholars gained valuable research information
from a plethora of MERIT fellows who are postdoctoral students enthusiastic to share
their expertise on diverse topics. Scholars received the opportunity to ask questions at
the end of each presentation and receive feedback.

The Intro to Scientific Research Workshop series were facilitated by the following UAB MERIT Postdoctoral
Fellows:

Workshop Date MERIT Fellows/Facilitators Topic of Discussion

1 September 11, 2020 Drs. Kristen Allen-Watts Research 101
and Christina Morra

2 September 25, 2020 Dr. Lisa Antoine Research Topics of Interest

3 October 9, 2020 Dr. Keri Kemp How to Conduct a Literature Review

4 October 23, 2020 Dr. Kasi C. McPherson Finalizing Topics & Beginning Your Paper

5 November 6, 2020 Dr. Taylor Buchanan Research Ethics and Professionalism

6 November 20, 2020 Dr. Matthew Madison Research Career Paths

A special thank you goes to Dr. Lisa Schwiebert and the MERIT Post-docs of UAB for an outstanding job
presenting this information to STEM scholars.

12 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

STEM Alumni Highlights
The 2020 STEM scholar graduates did a great job securing scholarships before their transition to four-year
universities. Below are some of the scholarships received and the scholars’ corresponding transfer institutions.

STEM Graduate Scholarships Transfer Institution Transfer Major

Vincent Belfield Alabama A&M Transfer Merit Alabama A&M University Mechanical
Engineering

Frederick Brooks UA Presidential The University of Electrical
UAB Phi Theta Kappa Alabama(UA) Engineering

Cameron Church UAB Phi Theta Kappa The University of Alabama at Biology/Genetics and
Stetson University Transfer Dean’s Birmingham (UAB) Genomic Sciences
Stetson University Phi Theta Kappa
UAH Super Scholar Transfer

Kera Dudley UA Community College The University of Electrical
Distinguished Scholarship Alabama(UA) Engineering
UA Phi Theta Kappa

Jeriah Henry Appalachian State Full Baseball Appalachian State University Physical Therapy

Amina Kelly Birmingham Southern Phi Theta Samford University Computer Science
Kappa
UAB Phi Theta Kappa
Samford University Phi Theta Kappa
Samford University Crossland Merit
Troy University Transfer Merit
UA Phi Theta Kappa

A Tribute to Dr. Charles Fowler, Retired Mathematics Chair
From Alumni STEM Scholars

Dr. Charles Fowler, a beloved mathematics and physics instructor at Lawson State Community College retired
on February 1, 2021. Below are some comments from our alumni STEM Scholars who were his students.

Dr. Fowler,
For the past 20+ years, you have dedicated your life not only to teaching mathematics
to students, but also having engaging and interactive classes that help students enjoy
the subject. Thank you for your advice and guidance over the past three years, and
thank you for making math fun. You have become like a mentor to me and a lot of
students that have had the pleasure of taking your classes. Happy Retirement!

Cameron Church

Dr. Fowler was a fantastic instructor! He taught some pretty difficult material but always
made it fun and engaging. I always looked forward to attending his classes. He was very
funny, approachable, and nice. Whenever I would hear anyone talk about Dr. Fowler, it
was always full of positivity.
Thank you, Dr. Fowler, for teaching me Calculus 1-3. Please know you have left a
positive impact and will be surely missed!

Thank you, 13
Fred Brooks

STEM + Art

By STEM Scholars, Kera Dudley | Electrical Engineering & Brehonna Pineda |Biology

Art requires creative thinking. Scientists, technicians, was then placed through tests by scientists to ensure the
engineers, and mathematicians all build great product was sufficient and accountable to the consumer.
masterpieces, solve real problems, or both. Doing so When an architect is first considering a new building,
requires creativity in one way or another. Art is becoming they must imagine the design and begin to draw it. Every
more and more advanced, just like technology. Many corner and curve that is seamless and eye catching must
artists use science, technology, engineering, and math first be sketched.
in different ways for their artwork. Actually, art can be Did you know that many people in STEM fields choose
considered a form of engineering. STEM is simply the art as their main hobby? Not only do we as STEM
connection between science, technology, engineering, professionals/pursuers integrate art into our daily lives,
and math. With these thoughts in mind, how can you but when retired, many of us will choose to become
not let art join the club? artists. This is because from a young age we all had some
Have you ever wondered the origin of a building? Stared form of creative insight. Think back to what yours was:
at your new phone and questioned the design? Perhaps either painting, music, building blocks, photography, etc.
even looked at your geometry homework and wondered Unknowingly, we opened a door to our future careers
about the shapes? Art is a part of all of these things, and and pursuits. Science, technology, engineering, and
in fact, this magazine you’re holding right now is art as mathematics require a creative mind, whether you see
well. Again, art can be considered a form of engineering. the arts as simply drawing on a piece of paper or not. We
The phone you have with you is a product of STEAM. all can agree that without art being included with STEM,
Plans were drawn out, and technicians, mathematicians, we are really not giving credit where it is due.
and engineers were called upon to then bring the
artwork to life. The study and protocol of the device

Above: STEM Scholar, Brehonna Pineda’s Above: Brehonna Pineda’s “The Play Place”
original piece “Saturday Morning”

Left: STEM Scholar, Kera Dudley’s Above: Kera Dudley’s Above: Brehonna Pineda’s
original pieces original piece “Persevere”
14 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

Why I Should Apply? Internships
and Why they Are Relevant

By STEM Scholar, Rhythm Williams | Animal Science

Internships are relevant to your college career because Internships also provide you with mentors who will
they build confidence in your field and allow you to help you gain the knowledge to get you through the
have substance when applying for other jobs of interest. program. This will also get you connected to more
It is important to engage in opportunities that come people who are already actively working in your field
your way throughout your career because it allows you of interest. Why is it important to get connected and
to take a sneak peek into your field of choice. stay connected? In your journey, you will forever need
Personally, I’ve been blessed enough to have completed recommendation letters, and mentorship, and it’s
three internships so far: (1)The University of Alabama always nice to just have evidence of good character and
at Birmingham’s Blazing to Biomedical Careers (BBC), commitment underneath your belt. If you’re pulling
(2) The American Heart Association HBCU Scholars your weight, most people will enjoy helping you, and
program, and (3) Lawson State’s STEM Research you can get that as a result of internships and gaining
Experience for Undergraduates (REU). Each of these that exposure.
internships involved different areas of research in This is your career and your life. Wouldn’t you want
STEM and prepared me to be one step closer to the to make the best of it? But what if you don’t get the
researcher I plan to become. This is an important internship you want? There are several more to apply
insight for all college students to have because you to, and just like you’re looking for a good internship,
might enjoy the internship you took part in, and it there is always someone out there looking for a
gives you a solid research experience in your field of great intern. Even though there is an abundance of
interest. For example, the BBC program gave me a solid opportunities, you want to keep in mind that you’re not
research project that I was able to submit and present the only one applying, so the earlier the better. When
at the Emerging Researchers National Conference in asked, “Have you participated in any internships?” if
STEM (ERN), and I was fortunate to win first place. you haven’t, your response should always include that
Receiving first place came with the benefit of receiving you’re looking to participate. This shows initiative and
a stipend in the amount of $500, and it connected me shows that you’re actively seeking. If you have, begin
with very well respected people in the STEM fields. to state them and express how humble you are for
There is also the possibility, while interning, that you those opportunities and how you are seeking for more.
discover that this field is not for you, or it can help Don’t let this internship ball drop because you got this.
you rethink your role or approach in that career. That’s Now, let’s apply!
valuable, too. It’s also okay if you feel you participated
in a program and you didn’t have the best experience. Rhythm Williams completed three internships during
It doesn’t happen often, but you may possibly end her matriculation at Lawson State Community College.
up running into minor issues. Just keep in mind Rhythm received the Most Promising Scientist award
everything you learn about the field, whether good for BBC and 1st place at the Emerging Reserachers
or bad, helps you pick the best career for YOU. If you National Conference in STEM in Washington, D.C.
find yourself at a loss after participating in a program for her outstanding research presentations.
you disliked, apply for another one that might be more
along the lines of your interests. 15

STEM Programs in the Summer Time!!!

The Pi-STEM E3 grant (Award # 1719329) at Lawson State Community College sponsors several
STEM opportunies during the summer. Below are descriptions of each program and highlights
from Summer 2020. All programs were held over the course of 4 weeks.

The STEM Enrichment Institute, also known as SEI, Highlights of the program
seeks to provide STEM enrichment and academic Provided by the Pi-STEM E3 grant, a total of 6 SEI
enhancement for middle and high school students participants were dually enrolled for the summer while
(8th - 12th grade). Summer participants met virtually participating in the program.
in 2020. SEI participants were given the option of The 2020 STEM Enrichment Institute Participants
taking a math course while participating in the SEI were: William Battle, Jaiden Boykin, Mikel Campbell,
program. The students who were eligible and chose Cameron Cottrell, Jada Daniels, Martel Davis, John
to gain college credit in the summer were designated Davis, Gavin Gatson, Kya Gardner, Caleb Harrell,
as SEI+ participants. The course was paid for by the Cameron Harris, Caveda Hawkins, Joshua Heard,
STEM program. Participants received the opportunity Stevens Hicks, Michaela Hubbert, Jayden Hunter,
to converse with STEM professionals and complete Jackie Hurst, Jr., Antonio Johnson, Jr., Aniyah Kyles,
STEM Projects, weekly discussion Boards, ACT Prep James Kyles, Liam Long, Kaleb Loury, Michael Nixon,
and programming/coding classes. Charity Penn, Ajia Shepherd, John Smith, Lindsey
Stinson, Austin Stokes, Alex Sullen, Jimyce Watson,
and Taylor Yarbrough.

Similar to the SEI Program, the STEM Bridge Highlights of the program
Pathways to College Program seeks to provide STEM For Summer 2020, all Bridge and SEI+ participants
enrichment and academic enhancement to recent passed their courses, and as a result, gained college
high school graduates. The program’s intention is to credit.
successfully bridge the high school graduates to a The 2020 STEM Bridge Participants were: Jacquez
college environment. As a result, one major difference Cotton, Jai Lewis, JaMarion Oliver, Sethany Owens,
is that STEM Bridge students are required to take one and Kayla Seals.
math course at Lawson State during the summer while
participating in the STEM enrichment portion of the
summer program. The math class is paid for by the
Lawson State STEM program.

The STEM Research Experiences for Undergraduates Highlights of the program
(REU) was organized in Spring 2020 as a result of an Although the program was initially designed for current
overwhelming number of internship cancellations LSCC STEM scholars, actual participants included
nation wide due to the pandemic. Lawson State students from other institutions, such as Tuskegee
partnered with the UAB MERIT Program to provide a University and UAB.
virtual, in-house research experience for Lawson State The 2020 STEM REU Participants were: Vincent
STEM Scholars. REU participants completed research Belfield, Frederick Brooks, Cameron Church, Kennedy
projects by the end of the program which were guided Foster, Isaiah Harris, Jeriah Henry, Myeshia Jenkins,
by MERIT Fellows. Additionally, REU participants Kristina Johnson, Amina Kelly, Iyuana Morris, Ashton
were required to mentor LSCC STEM Bridge and SEI+ Oliver, LaRon Shackleford, and Rhythm Williams.
participants while providing tutoring in math when
necessary.
16 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

STEM REU continued
The partnership between UAB’s IRACDA-MERIT
Program and Lawson State’s STEM Scholars
Program has been a win-win. As a cataclysmic
pandemic unfolded across the nation, both
programs worked together to develop innovative
solutions to the issues that were also unfolding
for undergraduates in STEM fields – cancelled
summer research internships. Through a 100%
virtual REU, STEM Scholars at Lawson State
were able to continue with their plans to conduct
research in the summer. Not only did the STEM
Scholars gain mentors during the summer through
the MERIT Fellows, the scholars also commented
on learning to better analyze scientific papers and
interpret data as a result of the REU. And as some
of the scholars had never participated in such a
research experience, having the scholars present
their research before their peers and mentors at
the end of the program was also a huge take-a-
way.

Above: 2020 REU Symposium Program Agenda

Above: SEI | Bridge | REU REU PRESENTATIONS Above: Girls IMPACT flyer
Promotional flyer
JUNE 30, 2020 | 3PM

VIA ZOOM
HTTPS://UAB.ZOOM.US/J/2059343970

Above: REU Presentation
Invitations

Girls IMPACT is a dynamic summer STEM program Highlights of the program
designed for girls of color (rising 8th through rising 12th Although the program was virtual for the first time,
graders) to be introduced to women of color who are sixty-three girls still completed the program, and the
current STEM professionals. Additionally, as mathematics post-surveys did not indicate any fewer gains as a
is critical to success in STEM fields, the participants’ result of the extenuating circumstances.
mathematics and problem-solving skills are developed
throughout the program through ACT prep lessons,
individualized tutoring sessions, and other hands-on
STEM activities.

17

Why Our Girls Should Try STEM

According to the National Science Foundation,
women make up half of the total U.S. college-
educated workforce, but only 28% of the
science and engineering workforce. There
is a high demand for a well-prepared STEM
workforce, particularly in areas such as
computer science and engineering.
And although women receive over half of
bachelor’s degrees awarded in the biological
sciences, they received far fewer in the
computer sciences (18%), engineering (20%),
physical sciences (39%), and mathematics
(43%). These numbers are low considering
women make up approximately 56% of the
U.S. college population.
We simply need more women pursuing STEM
fields.

Why You Should Try Girls IMPACT

51.4% of the 2020 participants' ACT math test scores increased by at least one
point by the end of the program (from pre to post-test)

100% of the 2020 participants answered “yes” to the post-survey question, “Do
you feel this program increased your confidence in doing mathematics?”

100% of the 2020 participants answered “yes” to the post-survey question, “Do
you feel this program increased your knowledge of STEM careers?”

18 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

Our History Table of Contents

In 2016, Girls IMPACT began as a result of a $1,000 service grant 18 Girls IMPACT - 1st Session with
awarded from the Southern Regional Education Board to Dr. Shawanda Ms. Jeneen Horton
Thomas. The vision was to expose minority girls to careers normally not Mechanical Engineer, Toyota
pursued by women, specifically STEM careers, by providing them with
the opportunity to meet minority women who were STEM professionals. 20 Additional Program Highlights
IMPACT is an acronym for “Increasing Mathematical Potential Among
College-Bound Teens.” As such, mathematics is an integral part of the
program. 22 2020 Girls IMPACT Speakers

The first year of the Girls IMPACT Summer Porgram was held at the A Lawson State - NCBW
Bessemer Public Library. Thirty Girls IMPACT participants received the 24 Aspiring STEM
opportunity to meet women who were successful STEM professionals Professionals Program Recap
once a week for 6 weeks. Additionally, participants received ACT and Girls IMPACT Motto:
math tutoring in addition to STEM activities. To empower girls to IMPACT
Since 2017, the program has been held at Lawson State Community the World through STEM
College as a result of former President Perry W. Ward’s enthusiasm to
have such a program on campus. In 2020, 63 girls participated in the
program which signifies its growth over the years. With the backing of
Lawson State Community College, the initial $1,000 service grant seed
has grown to around $350,000 in funding since the inception of the
program.

19

Session 1

Thursday, June 6, 2019

The first day of Girls IMPACT is always marked
with skepticism. It’s similar to the jitters you
get on the first day of school. Participants don’t
quite know what to expect when they walk in the
room, which is why the program is heavily laden with
icebreakers, inspiring role models, and other engaging
activities throughout the summer. What the participants don’t
know is that by the last session, some of them would form unbreakable
bonds with other Girls IMPACT participants.

Dr. Sherri Davis, Academic Dean at Lawson State Community College, provided
the opening welcome for the 2019 Girls IMPACT Summer Program. She praised the
participants for taking advantage of what the summer program had to offer.
The Girls IMPACT staff was introduced, followed by the “Strings Attached” icebreaker
which broke some of the tension and allowed the participants to see what they had in
common with each other.

An extra bonus for the day was the surprise arrival of Jefferson County Commissioner,
Shelia Tyson, who stopped by to observe the program.

Above: Jeneen Horton’s compelling STEM story Ms. Jeneen Horton has been employed at
prompts questions from the audience. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama, Inc.
since 2002. She is currently the manager of
20 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021 the Environmental and Facilities Department
and a former Engineering Specialist providing
environmental and energy management
guidelines along with construction building
support.
She received her Bachelor’s Degree in
Mechanical Engineering from Auburn
University in 1995. In 1997, she became
an Environmental Management System
Lead Auditor and in 2002, she obtained
her Registered Environmental Manager
certification from the National Register of
Environmental Professionals. She earned her
Certification Energy Manager Certification
in 2006 from the Association of Energy
Engineers. Jeneen was instrumental in Toyota
obtaining their ISO 14001 Certification and
numerous environmental awards.
Jeneen enjoys promoting STEM and the
Automotive Industry whenever she speaks.

“[Ms. Horton] was a great example of a black female Dr. Sherri Davis, Academic Dean
in STEM. I learned from Ms. Horton how important
Icebreakers
. . .it is to always do your best and achieve your goals.”
ACT Preparation
Session 1 Agenda
9:45 – 10:15 Sign-in/Complete Pre-surveys/Headshots Jefferson County Commissioner Shelia Tyson drops by
10:20 – 10:30 Welcome – Dr. Sherri Davis, Academic Dean

Lawson State Community College
10:30 – 10:40 Introduction of Girls IMPACT Staff
10:40 – 11:00 Icebreaker - “Strings Attached”
11:00 – 12:00 Pre-test ACT Math Section
12:00 – 1:00 Lunch/Break/Introduction of Speaker
1:00 – 1:45 Presentation – Guest Speaker: Ms. Jeneen Horton

Mechanical Engineer | Toyota Motor Corporation
1:45 – 2:25 Orientation into Blackboard, GroupMe, and LMS
2:25 – 2:55 Integers Lecture
2:55 – 3:00 Reminders/Dismissal

Our guest speaker for the day was Ms. Jeneen Horton, Engineer for
Toyota. This was Ms. Horton’s first visit to the Girls IMPACT Summer
Program, but she was definitely not an amateur. She began her
presentation by sharing the challenges she faced becoming an engineer
in a male-dominated field. Afterwards, she divided the participants
into teams and an invigorating game ensued where participants
responded to questions related to science and mathematics. It was
evident the participants were highly engaged by the interactive game
which required the use of a buzzer system. This activity was perhaps
one of the most engaging activities in the program.
See for yourself by watching a video clip from Session 1 of Girls
IMPACT on Instagram @girlsimpactalabama.

Jeneen Horton and 2019 Girls IMPACT participants. 21

Girls IMPACT 2019
Additional Highlights

During one of Girls IMPACT’s 2019 sessions with Adrianne Above: 2019 Girls IMPACT Participants are
Brown, participants were introduced to food chemistry! The ready to experiment.
Food Nutrient Analysis BioKit allowed participants to perform
qualitative tests for sugar, starch, lipid, protein, and vitamin
C on standards and control samples. Students then use these
tests to determine the identity of two unknown substances.
The materials used described the function of these nutrients in
the body, their importance, and how the qualitative tests work.

Above: Adrianne Brown Above: Adrianne Brown(left), Ph.D. student
provides instructions at Tuskegee University, and Cornesha Smith
before the experiment. (right), 2019 Girls IMPACT Intern

Left:
The last
session for the
summer is always
bittersweet but
cupcakes help to
sweeten the
ordeal!

Above: The
participants
with the highest

program
averages

22 The STEMPOSIUAMbMovagea:zAinte 2th02e1last session of the program, Girls IMPACT participants were tasked with
creating 15 second STEM videos. The videos were absolutely imaginative and creative!

Above: Girls IMPACT’s first trip to the Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, AL (July 2019)

First Field Trip
It’s safe to say that Girls IMPACT is not “all work and no play.”
The Girls IMPACT Summer Program took its very first field
trip to Huntsville, Alabama on July 2, 2019. The first stop
was HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology where the
girls were greeted by women scientists. One such scientist
was Dr. Candice Finnila who organized the tour. Dr. Finnila
has degrees in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Physiology
and Biophysics. After touring HudsonAlpha, participants
enjoyed exploring the U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC)
which was more fun than anyone expected. Above: A Girls IMPACT group pic at
HudsonAlpha in Huntsville, AL

Above: Dr. Candice Finnila Above: The Moonshot Ride (USSRC) Above: Rock climbing (USSRC) 23

2020 Girls IMPACT Guest Speakers

The year 2020 brought some challenges for summer enrichment programs, but nevertheless, the Girls IMPACT
program prevailed. The participants’ post-survey results were similar to 2019’s results, and in some cases, better.
Additionally, the year actually gave us an opportunity to reach speakers virtually who would normally not have
been available to speak in person due to traveling constraints. On behalf of the Girls IMPACT Program, we would
personally like to thank our speakers for sharing some of their time and wisdom with Girls IMPACT participants.

Day 1 - July 7, 2020 Day 2 - July 9, 2020

Dr. K. Renee Horton L’Tryce Slade

Electrical Engineer/Materials Scientist Entrepreneur/Owner
NASA SLADE Land Use, Environmental
Planning, LLC
Dr. K. Renee Horton is
a native of Baton Rouge, SLADE Land Use,
Louisiana. She is a graduate Environmental, and
of Louisiana State University Transportation Planning, LLC
with a B.S. in Electrical is a 100% Minority Woman
Engineering with a minor Owned General Contracting
in Math. She earned a Ph.D. and Environmental Services
in Materials Science with Firm. Ms. Slade specializes
a concentration in Physics in environmental services,
from the University of geotechnical services,
Alabama. construction material testing,
and urban planning.
Day 3 - July 14, 2020
Day 4 - July 16, 2020
Adrienne Newton
Dominga Gardner
Chemical Engineer
Southern Company Computer Scientist
Jefferson County Commission

Ms. Adrienne Newton Ms. Gardner received a
holds a bachelor’s degree Bachelor of Science degree
in Chemical Engineering from Mississippi State
from Howard University University in Computer
and an MBA from UAB. She Science with minors in
also has her Professional Mathematics and Software
Engineer’s (PE) license. Engineering. She also holds
two Master of Science degrees
in Educational Technology
and Information Systems.

Other Acknowledgments
Thank you, 2020 Girls IMPACT Staff: Mrs. Jean Whitlow - STEM Assistant; Dr. Dutchess Jones -Mathematics
Specialist; Kera Dudley - GI Intern/Electrical Engineering major; and I’yuana Morris - GI Intern/Animal Science
major.

24 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

Day 5 - July 21, 2020 Day 6 - July 23, 2020

Dr. Stacie Fairley Dr. Ankrehah Johnson

Microbiologist/Immunologist Physician/Owner
Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Brownstone Healthcare & Aesthetics
Medicine
Dr. Kre (pronounced Kree) is a
Dr. Fairley attended Alabama board-certified family medicine
State University (ASU) earning physician, international public
a B.S. in Biology. She taught at speaker, life coach, wife,
ASU for 7 years before enrolling and mother. She earned her
in the inaugural Ph.D. program doctorate of medicine from
in Microbiology at Alabama Kansas City University of
State University. Medicine and Biosciences.

Day 7 - July 28, 2020 Day 7 - July 28, 2020

Adrianne Brown Fawzy Bukari

Ph.D. Student/Integrative Biosciences Ph.D. Student/Integrative Biosciences
Tuskegee University Tuskegee University

Adrianne Brown is a Ph.D. Foaziatu Bukari is an
student at Tuskegee University American Association of
studying plant science. Her University Women Fellow and
research involves concentrating graduate student at Tuskegee
on understanding the University. She has degrees
relationship between in Agribusiness (TSU) and
sweetpotato and a viral disease Agricultural Technology
called sweetpotato feathery from the University for
mottle virus (SPFMV). Development Studies, Ghana.

Day 7 - July 30, 2020 Day 8 - July 30, 2020

Joaniteka Whitlow-Nixon Brittany Rhodes

Architectural/Construction Management Founder/CEO
JDM Management Consulting, LLC Black Girl MATHgic

Joaniteka Whitlow- The Black Girl MATHgic
Nixon holds a Bachelor of Box is the first and
Architecture degree from only subscription box
Tuskegee University. In 2003, created to increase math
her career advanced on a confidence and decrease
global scale for 16.5 years with math anxiety in girls on a
General Electric. 3rd-8th grade math level.

25

“Inspiring the Aspiring”

The Lawson State – NCBW Aspiring STEM Professionals Program(LNASP) was a spin-off of the Girls IMPACT
program. The program, strategically designed to increase participants’ interest in and knowledge of STEM fields,
impacted 535 women and girls over the duration of the grant period (April - December 2019). The initial goal
of impacting at least 500 women and girls was obtained by hosting multiple STEM events on both campuses of
Lawson State Community College (Birmingham and Bessemer, Alabama). The events were the following:

Event Title Date(s) Held #Sessions

1 STEMPOSIUM May 31, 2019 1

2 Two-day Coding Sessions June/July 2019 5

3 October STEM Festival October 5, 2019 2

4 Robot Expo November 2 and 23, 2019 2

Total Events 10

The STEM events began with The STEMposium on May 2019 in Lawson State’s Arthur Shores Fine Arts Building,
a term coined by Dr. Shawanda Thomas, the Principal Investigator for the program. Designated school districts
were heavily targeted for the opportunity; however, students from all districts were eligible to apply for the Aspiring
STEM Professionals Program. A meeting was scheduled with two chapters of the National Coalition of 100 Black
Women (NCBW), superintendents and/or other school district representatives to discuss a plan for recruitment.
After this initial meeting, advertisements for the events were broadcasted on Lawson State Community College’s
website and social media pages as well as shared electronically to organizations such as Girls Scouts, Girls Inc., and
Delta GEMs, to name a few. Members of NCBW also recruited within the targeted school districts and shared the
information within their membership. A total of 490 girls applied to the program.

As a result of the attendees’ participation in the Aspiring STEM Professionals Program, the following outcomes
were met: (1) Improved attitudes toward STEM fields and careers, (2) Increased interest in STEM-related courses
in school, (3) Continued participation in STEM programming, (4) Increased self-confidence in tackling science
classes and projects, and (5) Shift in attitude about careers in STEM.
LNASP Event 1: The STEMposium
The STEMposium, which was the orientation for the Aspiring STEM Professionals Program, hosted approximately
300 attendees which included participants, parents, STEM speakers/facilitators, and Lawson State students who
served as moderators for the event. STEM facilitators consisted of modern-day women role models who are
employed by companies such as Alabama Power, Southern Power, The Alabama Technology Network, and the
Naval Sea Systems Command. A popular local radio station, 95.7 JAMZ, broadcasted remotely on campus to
advertise the event.

26 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

LNASP Event 2: The Summer Coding Sessions
Event 2, the two-day coding sessions, was an integral component of the Aspiring STEM Professionals program.
As such, two-day coding sessions were scheduled throughout the summer. A total of 160 girls participated in the
two-day coding sessions. Dr. Kesha James, Director of Online Education at Lawson State Community College,
facilitated the coding sessions. Most of the participants were able to develop their first app as a result of attending
the two-day sessions.

LNASP Event 3: The October STEM Festival
Event 3, the October STEM Festival, was held on October 5, 2019. The theme of the event was “Women Can Tech,
Too.” This event highlighted Career Technical fields by providing recurring tours of Lawson State Community
College’s Robotics and Mechatronics Labs in addition to the Center of Automotive Excellence, which highlighted
automotive manufacturing technology opportunities that exist.

LNASP Event 4: The Robot Expo
The Robot Expo events consisted of a robotics training for girls in addition to parent workshops. Nancy Wilson,
Assistant Dean of Career Technical Education at Lawson State Community College, and Eula Todd, Manager of
Title III, Special Programs and Services at Lawson State Community College, facilitated the robotics training. Each
participant received mini solar robot kits that utilized forms of alternative energy to operate once constructed.

27

“Dr. Thomas, I would like to personally thank you and your team for this wonderful opportunity
afforded to the kids. I never knew this existed, and I am floored. As a first-generation African
American, I cannot express the depth of my gratitude to you. My family hails from Nigeria,
and we are true champions of education! I truly pray and hope our kids understand the
privilege they have in being able to participate in this program. Thank you once again.”

Dele Aduroja, 2019 GI Parent

“My most memorable moment was the first time we [met] up virtually. I was new but it felt like

I was home.”

- 2020 GI Participant

“This program has impacted me more than I thought it would. I went into this program not
being very interested in pursuing the STEM field, but now I’ve learned that STEM is not only
limited to mathematicians or researchers but involves working alongside people pursuing
different areas and incorporates subjects other than just math and science. Acquiring this
knowledge has opened my mind to not completely canceling out jobs in STEM because I may
never know how one job in STEM may tie into an interest I have that doesn’t seem to directly
relate. Another very important thing I’ve taken away from this experience is to have more faith
in myself. Being both a person of color and a woman comes with its challenges already, so having
no confidence in yourself or your dreams is only another thing that can make reaching your goals
harder. I’ve learned that loving and accepting myself, working hard, and following my passions
no matter what comes my way will ensure that I can make my dream job or life come true.”

- 2020 GI Participant

28 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

From the Chief Empowerment Officer

Dr. Shawanda Thomas

Since my freshman year at Alabama A&M University, it has been a dream of mine to have a program that introduced
girls to the many possibilities that exist in the world for them. I am originally from a very rural area, and I did not
see engineers or scientists in my community growing up. Nevertheless, once I was in college, I was surrounded by
young women who were STEM majors and aspiring STEM professionals. In fact, my dormitory suite mates were
both computer science majors, and I eventually became the President of the National Society of Black Engineers
on campus even as a mathematics major and computer science minor. I wanted girls in my hometown to see these
young ladies in their element. I believed that this would inspire them to reach higher. Fortunately, years later as a
college educator, I received the opportunity to vie for a $1,000 service grant from the Southern Regional Education
Board in 2016. The rest is history. Girls IMPACT has been thriving every summer since, and fortunately, people
recognize the need to invest in our girls. As evidence, Girls IMPACT has received around $350,000 in funding so
far. I am so grateful to be a part of the grand scheme of what God is doing through the program. It is my hope that
the girls grow one step closer to figuring out what they want to do through the program even if it is not STEM. The
goal is that the girls are exposed to their many options in STEM but ultimately determine exactly what they were
created to do.

Dr. Shawanda Thomas is a graduate of A.L. Johnson High School, Alabama A&M University, and The University
of Alabama (Tuscaloosa). She obtained her bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate all in mathematics. She has been
teaching mathematics at Lawson State Community College since 2009 and was appointed STEM Director in 2019.

Website: http://girlsimpactalabama.0rg
Follow us: @girlsimpactalabama
29

Integrity

Research

The Lawson State STEM Scholars Program is Service
a program for undergraduate STEM majors
at the College who are seeking additional Excellenc
opportunities related to careers involving
science, technology, engineering, and 2
mathematics. 0
Eligibility: 2
*STEM major at Lawson State 1
*3.0 or higher GPA (high school or college)
*Positive attitude and motivation
Once an eligible student is enrolled at the
College, they should:
1. Apply to the program
Application link:
http://www.lawsonstate.edu/stem.aspx
2. Look for correspondence related to details
about the STEM Interview
3. Show up for interview prepared

Scholars will be expected to commit to at least
7 hours per week to the program.

The STEM Scholars Program is mostly funded
by an NSF HBCU-UP Implementation grant,
titled Pi-STEM E3, which is under NSF Award
#1719329.

A modest stipend is provided to
active and engaged participants.

For more information, e-mail:
[email protected]
30 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021

y JOIN THE STEM PROGRAM AT LAWSON STATE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
e
ce Research | Integrity | Service | Excellence

Current 2020-21 STEM Scholars
Ryan Edwards | Electrical Engineering
Zoe Evans | Biology
Erin Howard | Biology
Kaitlyn Jenkins | Computer Science
Preston London | Engineering
David Nash | Computer Science
Ashton Oliver | Biomedical Engineering
Hailey Brehonna Pineda | Biology
Jaylon Ray | Computer Science
LaRon Shackleford | Physics
Quentin St. Charles | Engineering (Computer Science)
A’Lissia Thomas | Animal Science
Steven Thompson |Industrial Electronics
Lorlandus Ware | Computer Science
Norvie Womack | Biology

We would like to extend a special thank you to all Lawson State Community College administrators
who have supported our programs and those individuals who agreed to be on the STEM Internal and
External Advisory Boards.

Internal Advisory Board External Advisory Board

Dr. Bruce Crawford Dr. Ruth Jones
Vice President for Instructional Services Acting Deputy Director, NASA Michoud
Principal Investigator, Pi-STEM E3 Assembly Facility; New Orleans, LA
Dr. Shawanda Thomas Branch Chief, Industrial Safety, NASA Marshall
STEM Director Space Flight Center; Huntsville, AL
Co-Principal Investigator, Pi-STEM E3 Dr. Lisa Schwiebert
Weymon Holloway Director, UAB MERIT Program
Honors College Director Professor & Senior Associate Dean for Graduate
LSAMP Campus Coordinator and Postdoctoral Affairs |Responsible Conduct of
Dr. Karl Pruit Research Training Coordinator
Associate Dean Department of Cell, Developmental, and
Liberal Arts and Sciences and Transfer Programs Integrative Biology
Nancy Wilson Joaniteka Whitlow-Nixon
Assistant Dean Owner/CEO
Career Technical Education JDM Management Consulting, LLC
Dr. Tracey Wilson Are you a STEM professional and would like to
Instructor/Chair, Department of Natural Sciences volunteer to share your expertise for our STEM
Institutional Liaison, MERIT Program programs? Please contact Dr. Shawanda Thomas
at [email protected].

31

Thank you for supporting our STEM Programs For more information,
at Lawson State Community College! CONTACT:
STEM Scholars Program Dr. Shawanda Thomas
STEM Enrichment Institute (SEI) STEM Director
STEM Bridge Program Lawson State Community College
Girls IMPACT [email protected]

Thank You to all of our Sponsors!

STEM grant for HBCUs Community Action Grant Workforce Development
and PBIs with High STEAM Grant
School Programs

HBCU-UP Implementation Community College Title III-B Doctoral Scholars
Development Pipeline Strengthening Association Service Grant
Award# 1719329 HBCUs Program

32 The STEMPOSIUM Magazine 2021